1. Set financial goals. Put them in writing, and calculate how much you’ll need to save monthly to reach your goals. Remember to make note of the big and small financial goals – from going on spring break next year to retiring early.

2. Make a budget and stick to it. Limit debt to your ability to pay it off. Monthly credit payments (not including mortgages) should not go over 20% of your net income. Also, start by paying off existing bills before incurring new ones.

3. Start building an emergency fund. This should be equal to three to six months of living expenses and should be used ONLY in the case of an emergency.

4. Save at least 10% of your gross income. Put it in your emergency fund, toward future goals and retirement. If you can’t make 10%, start smaller and work up to 10%. Saving any amount is better than none.

5. Take advantage of the financial services Blue Mountain Credit Union offers to you as a customer/member.

6. Get proper insurance. This includes health, disability, auto, renters/homeowners and life insurance.

7. After you’ve completed steps 1-6, start investing small amounts of your savings. Do this gradually over time, with sensible contributions.

8. Save money for retirement. Use tax-advantaged savings plans from your employer like 401(k) plans, or open individual retirement savings plans from Blue Mountain Credit Union.

9. Keep your job skills fresh and up-to-date. This will keep your job options open and will allow for salary increases.

10. Save all financial files. Do so in an orderly and easily accessed system so you have them readily available when you need them.